Emily Crain

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Not so gaga for Goo Goo Dolls

Nozuka gives off mellow vibe

If there is one skill that Justin Nozuka has mastered, it is the art of repeating himself. Not just once or twice, but frequently, throughout almost every songs on his new album, You I Wind Land and Sea.

Darker tones strengthen 'Brave' release

From the sound to the lyrics, Stir the Blood is a darker album than what the Bravery have done in the past, which they use to their benefit. On their self-titled first album, the Bravery paired comical lyrics with rock music, and on their second album, The Sun and The Moon, they tried for happier lyrics. Now the Bravery have gotten edgier. Their lyrics mostly express anger, and so does the sound.  Sure, it's depressing at times, but that is what makes it so successful. The album is well-suited for a stressful time when you have a full work-load and all you want to do is procrastinate for awhile, by rocking out on a fake guitar while jumping on your bed. The tracks on this album aren't screamy like most anger-inspired music, which helps them appeal to a larger crowd.

Weezer have the right Raditude

Weezer's new album, Raditude,   adds a few surprises to the traditional Weezer format, but doesn't move far from the Weezer that fans know and love.

Slow Attack on skull

Brett Anderson's new album, Slow Attack, is a dud. From its first song, ""Hymn,"" to its last, ""Leave Me Sleeping,"" the entire album is disappointing. It is a mixture of sinister tunes and off-balanced singing. The only parts of the album that are pleasing are the beginning—because you haven't heard it yet—and the end—because it's over.

Singer provides heartfelt yet inconsistent take on legend

Nellie McKay's As Normal as Blueberry Pie: A Tribute to Doris Day takes us back in time to the 1920s prohibition era with smooth jazz and slow ragtime tunes, like Nora Jones or Ella Fitzgerald. McKay's voice is slightly husky and dream-like, which makes her slower songs relaxing and her faster songs really upbeat.

Take a vacation with the new release from Islands

Islands, an indie pop band from Montreal, are set to release their third album, Vapours. While their last album, Arm's Way, was filled with songs with a lighter feeling and a sense of eeriness, Vapours contains music that feels heavier and more upbeat. The album consists of tunes that bring your mind toward the beach and focuses on reviving retro tunes to fit the modern era.